Bouchard Père & Fils : Beaune 1er cru "Clos de La Mousse" Domaine Monopole 2022

This aromatic red evokes sandalwood, juniper, tomato leaf, incense, and ripe cherry and currant flavors. Lithe and linear, with a firm line of acidity and tannins driving the persistent finish. Shows lovely harmony and a gossamer texture. Drink now through 2040. 160 cases imported.

In the words of technical director Fédéric Weber, the 2022 Clos de la Mousse is 'the archetype of Beaune,' with its beautifully expressive mulberry and black cherry fruit and hints of bay leaf, pepper, and smoke. The texture is firmly tannic and structured but not heavy or astringent. There was a single night of cold soak before fermentation, and then the fermentation slowly began, with 40% of the grapes as whole clusters. Extraction was very soft, with almost no punching down. The result is tremendously good, with a lingering finish, notable balance, and impressive depth of flavour.

What a stunning nose of beautifully ripe raspberries and strawberries, underlined by dry forest-floor and hazelnut-dream character. Beautiful balance of velvety tannins with excellent concentration on the generous and polished palate. Very long, silky finish that pulls you back for more of this beauty. From a 3 hectare plot from a terraced site with deep clay. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.